Controversial acquittal in Kasur video scandal case sparks outrage

• LHC accepts appeals, acquits main culprits despite ATC’s life imprisonment verdict

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has acquitted the three main culprits of the infamous Kasur video scandal, despite their earlier conviction and sentencing to life imprisonment by an anti-terrorism court (ATC). The controversial decision has sparked outrage and raised concerns about justice in cases of heinous crimes.

The two-member bench, led by Justice Shahram Sarwar Chaudhry, heard the appeals filed on behalf of the accused, with Abid Hussain Kuchi and Sohail Asghar Advocate representing the defendants during the proceedings.

The Kasur video scandal dates back to 2015 when the Ganda Singh police in Kasur registered a case against the criminals involved. The accused were subsequently tried in an ATC Lahore, which handed down life imprisonment sentences in connection with the shocking and widely condemned incident.

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LHC’s decision to acquit the culprits has left many questioning the efficacy of the justice system and its ability to deliver justice in cases that have a significant societal impact. The move has also reignited discussions on the need for stringent measures to address crimes of a sensitive nature, particularly those involving the exploitation and abuse of vulnerable individuals.

The scandal in concern transpired eight years ago in Hussain Khanwala village, Kasur. In this particular case, a group of suspects, believed to be operating as a gang, recorded videos that documented the sexual abuse of a minimum of 280 children. Exploiting their abhorrent actions, the criminals reportedly engaged in blackmail, threatening parents with the release of the incriminating videos unless they complied with ransom demands.

Critics argue that the acquittal sends a troubling message and may undermine public trust in the judicial system. Calls for a review of the decision and a reexamination of the evidence are echoing through legal circles and civil society, with concerns over the potential implications for future cases involving similar offenses.